Qualcomm has opened applications for its “Make in Africa” Startup Mentorship Program, aimed at supporting early-stage African startups.
The program will offer services such as engineering consultation for product development, business coaching, and intellectual property (IP) protection guidance. Startups that receive positive responses will gain direct access to Qualcomm engineers and business mentors.
Applications will remain open until February 16, and the program will take place between April and December 2025.
Due to the rising investments on the continent, there has been an increase in demand for technological innovation.
As more startups venture into hardware, IoT, artificial intelligence (AI), and 5G applications, access to IP protection and technical expertise has become essential.
Africa’s hardware and semiconductor ecosystem has not yet reached the required level, leading entrepreneurs to favor software-driven solutions.
Through this mentorship program, Qualcomm aims to develop local talent and address this gap.
Such initiatives may open doors for future investments in Africa’s growing technological infrastructure.